Dear Erin,
It was four years ago today, the morning after the first Women's March, that you picked me up when my life had shattered in a million pieces. In need of warmth at a time when I was hurting, I walked down the two flights of stairs and rang your doorbell. We went to my favorite bar in the neighborhood and, over the course of a few hours, went from neighbors who would say hi in the laundry room to true friends. The empathy you had for my wounds mirrored mine for yours. In getting to know you better, and from hearing stories from your personal and professional life, I grew to admire you beyond words. How you faced incredible adversity for you and your schoolchildren so fearlessly makes you one of the most inspiring people I have ever had the privilege of meeting.
My heart goes out to Andrew, John, Meghan, Brandon, Katelyn, Jefferson, and everyone in the South Bronx. Other than meeting Andrew once a few Halloweens ago, I never had the chance to know the rest of the people in your life that you cared so much about. It was clear from the deep conversations we shared, though, that all of them meant the whole world to you.
This is the only photo we have together. It's from the House of Yes in December of 2017. I will cherish this and other memories of you securely in my heart until the day we cross paths again. See you in another life...
Love,
Andrew F.
Thanks for sharing a wonderful memory, Andrew. I absolutely LOVE hearing bits about her life after she was grown and on her own. When she was in first grade, her best friend's mom died suddenly. She asked if she could see her friend. I sat her down and explained what she might expect, how difficult it might, that her friend may cry a lot. She gazed up at me and stated matter-of-factly, "I know, Mommy. I'll be OK. She needs me."
Happy she was there for you so many years later.
Hi Diane. Thank you for the comment and the wonderful story. Please keep me updated on any in-person celebrations of her life once it is safe to gather. Until then, please accept my condolences and a big cyber-hug from me. Much love :-)
Thanks for the hug! Can't see into the time we can have in-person celebrations yet, but will keep you in mind.